Septic System Maintenance

Begin by locating the septic tank access risers. These are typically large, circular openings that extend from the tank lid to ground level. You may need to probe the ground with a rod or shovel to find them, especially if they are buried. Once located, carefully excavate the soil around the risers to expose the lids.

Once the risers are exposed, carefully examine the lids and the riser pipes themselves. Look for any visible cracks, breaks, or signs of deterioration. Ensure the lids fit snugly and are properly sealed to prevent surface water from entering the tank. Check for any evidence of leaks around the connection points.

Using appropriate tools, carefully remove the lids from the septic tank risers. Lids can be heavy and may be sealed. Be prepared to lift them safely, and have a place to set them where they won't be a hazard. If the lids are secured with screws or bolts, remove them first.

With the lids removed, use a flashlight to inspect the interior of the septic tank. Observe the layers of scum (solids floating on top) and sludge (solids settled at the bottom). The tank generally needs pumping when the scum layer is within 6 inches of the bottom of the outlet baffle or the sludge layer is within 12 inches of the top of the tank. You can use a measuring stick or a long pole to gauge these levels. Also, look for any signs of inflow or outflow pipe blockages.

If your inspection indicates that the scum or sludge levels have reached the recommended pumping thresholds, it's time to schedule a professional septic tank pumping service. Contact a reputable septic service company. They will have the specialized equipment to safely and effectively remove the accumulated solids and liquids from your tank.

After the tank has been pumped (or if pumping was not required but you have opened the tank), clean the inside of the riser pipes and the septic tank lids. Use a hose and a stiff brush to remove any accumulated sludge, scum, or debris. Ensure the sealing surfaces on both the lid and the riser are clean and free of obstructions.

Once the risers and lids are clean and dry, carefully place the lids back onto the septic tank risers. Ensure they are properly aligned and seated. If your lids have screws or bolts, reinsert and tighten them securely to create a tight seal. Check that the lids are flush with the ground or intended surface.

After the lids are securely in place, carefully backfill the excavated area around the septic tank risers. Use the soil that was removed, and compact it in layers to prevent settling. Ensure the ground surface is graded away from the risers to prevent water pooling.

Periodically inspect your septic drainfield (also known as a leach field or absorption field) for any signs of system failure. Look for areas where water is pooling on the surface, unusually lush or dead vegetation in specific areas, or persistent foul odors. These can indicate that the drainfield is not functioning properly and may require professional attention.

The best maintenance is preventative. Be mindful of what goes into your septic system. Avoid flushing non-biodegradable items such as feminine hygiene products, paper towels, diapers, or excessive amounts of toilet paper. Limit the disposal of grease, coffee grounds, and harsh chemicals down drains, as these can disrupt the natural bacterial balance within the tank and clog pipes.